Jeep Cherokee suspension issue

Tiny
BIGDADDYT
  • MEMBER
  • JEEP CHEROKEE
I just bought an 85 cherokee with the 2.5 4 cyl. 4 wheel drive automatic. Car runs perfectly but at about 40-45 mph begins to shake violently on what seems to be the passenger front. Wheels and tires are almost brand new. I was told to check the tie-rod end but evidently there is an inside and outside tie-rod end. Anyone know which it would be or if this is the culprit? Any help is appreciated greatly.
Saturday, September 1st, 2007 AT 6:49 PM

8 Replies

Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
You need to jack up the front end and shake the wheels for play, if it doesn't make sense I'll walk you through it.

Is this a grand Cherokee?.......They had problems with the steering dampners, It HAS to be replaced with a Heavy Duty one......Not standard.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_dampner_2.jpg



https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_mitchel_7.jpg

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Saturday, September 1st, 2007 AT 7:05 PM
Tiny
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No it is not a grand. It is a regular xj model. I understand what you mean about checking for play, but I was hoping for input about whwther this sounded correct. It just seems odd that it dosnt shake at all until it reaches 40-45 mph.
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Saturday, September 1st, 2007 AT 7:20 PM
Tiny
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Generally, it is from a wheel balance problem. I have seen weights that have come off, mud or ice on the inside well of the rim and road tar that gets caught in the tread to cause this.

I have my share of wheel joints on these go bad also. You would have to be 4 WD mode though for this to be felt typically. Should check em regardless.
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Sunday, September 2nd, 2007 AT 7:56 AM
Tiny
GRICHARDS
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  • 57 POSTS
Definitely give "Service Writer's" input a good look-over. Also check out "1992 Jeep Cherokee" post on first page of this forum for additional generic causes - someone else is having a similar problem.
Now if folks would ONLY post back with what they've found/done/repaired to put into the general knowledge pool. Good Luck!
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Sunday, September 2nd, 2007 AT 9:53 AM
Tiny
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I had the tires checked and they are in balance. Meanwhile I pulled the tire myself and found at least a half inch of play in the outer tie rod end. The part has been ordered and I will let you guys know the results when it comes in and is installed.
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Sunday, September 2nd, 2007 AT 5:43 PM
Tiny
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Thanks for the update, I mis-understood, I thought you had already checked for play. That sounds like you nailed it though.
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Monday, September 3rd, 2007 AT 6:17 AM
Tiny
BIGDADDYT
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  • 7 POSTS
Tie rod end finally came in and seems to have fixed the problem. There is still some vibration that comes and goes while at speed. But I believe thats because of the off road tires. They make alot of road noise but they sure like mud! Still, now I have other problems, guess I will post a new question.
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Sunday, September 9th, 2007 AT 1:52 AM
Tiny
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Knobby tires will do that and vary depending on surfaces thay ride on.

Make sure you get the mud out of the rims completely or the wheel will go out of balance.
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Sunday, September 9th, 2007 AT 6:27 AM

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